Bazm-e-Sahafat Urdu Conclave: ‘India Offers Unmatched Freedom Of Speech,’ Says Group Managing Editor Radheshyam Rai

The Bharat Express News Network’s Urdu team held the ‘Bazm-e-Sahafat’ Urdu Conclave in Delhi, celebrating Urdu journalism and its vital role in India. Eminent figures from journalism, education, and politics attended, with Bharat Express Group’s Managing Editor, Radheshyam Rai, delivering a keynote address.

Rai expressed his appreciation for Urdu, emphasizing the close relationship between Hindi and Urdu that he observed during his academic years at JNU. He noted that, although he did not master Urdu, he values the language’s richness and cultural significance.

Freedom of Speech in India

Addressing the state of journalism, Rai asserted that India allows unmatched freedom of expression compared to other nations, despite concerns about press freedom rankings. He highlighted India’s diversity and praised the country’s openness, stating that the freedom journalists enjoy here surpasses that of other countries.

Contrast with American Journalism

Rai compared journalism in India and the U.S., stating that American journalism has long faced challenges, as shown in Orson Welles’ film Citizen Kane. He noted that “yellow journalism” has impacted U.S. media, unlike in India, where journalism still thrives and empowers society.

In closing, Rai emphasized the influence of journalism, explaining that while people from all professions rely on journalists, the integrity and independence of journalism mean that journalists themselves do not depend on anyone.

Also Read: Bharat Express Urdu Conclave ‘Bazm-e-Sahafat’ Honors Urdu Journalism And Eminent Personalities In Delhi